The detail.
Most retail sales of goods other than hot food are now within E(a). Some small essential shops meeting the specific F2(a) criteria are treated differently. Older permissions and leases may still refer to A1.
This guidance applies to England. The lawful use, conditions, any proposed works and the facts of the operation should be checked for each property.
What to check.
- Check the original permission, conditions and lease wording instead of assuming every historic reference gives unrestricted Class E use.
- Confirm the proposed use and any works with the local planning authority or an adviser.
A planning adviser or the local planning authority can advise on the specific property and proposal.
Sources.
- Planning Portal: use classes in England
- GOV.UK: when is permission required?
- 2020 use-class changes: GOV.UK
Sources reviewed 6 November 2026. General information, not a planning opinion.